Conference Program Outline and Agenda

Participants and observers are reminded that all those attending do so in their personal capacities, not as spokespeople for any country or institution. In addition, all the proceedings take place under the Chatham House Rule: All presentations and/or discussions at this conference are un-attributable.

Tuesday, October 7

Registration | 3:00 p.m.-3:40 p.m.

Location: Lobby of Multi-Purpose Room, Kreitzberg Library

Plenary Sessions I | 4:00 p.m.-4:40 p.m.

Location: Multi-Purpose Room, Kreitzberg Library”Where should US foreign policy priorities be now? Is the rebalancing to Asia real, and what does that mean for Europe and the Middle East? How can the US find the right kind of relationship with the rising power of China, and with a revanchist Russia seeking to throw its weight around in Europe? How should the US seek to interact with other emerging powers such as Brazil, South Africa and India, and to help its allies in Europe, especially if they continue, as they have historically done, to show little sign of wanting to help themselves?”

Introduction: Professor Heidi Lane, Naval War College

Plenary Session II | 4:40 p.m.-5:20 p.m.

Location: Multi-Purpose Room, Kreitzberg Library

“Is US exceptionalism still alive and well, and how far do gridlock and polarization in Washington undermine its impact? Are we facing a new period of US isolationism and, if so, should we worry about it? In a multipolar world, what is the right balance between hard and soft power for the US to maximize its influence and leadership potential, and how important is US economic weight and power? Should the US now be the big power most interested in promoting multilateralism, including multilateral trade deals?”

Introduction: Professor Yangmo Ku, College of Liberal Arts, Norwich University

Coffee Break | 5:20 p.m.-5:40 p.m.

Plenary Session III | 5:40-6:30 p.m.

Location: Multi-Purpose Room, Kreitzberg Library

What are the key non-military threats against and vulnerabilities of the US? What are the foundations of US economic power and how solid are they? How do they stack up in a fast-changing and economically multi-polar world, now and in the future? What are the implications for a US geo-economic strategy? And where does development aid fit in? What are the strengths and weaknesses of projecting US soft power? Would non-military strategies really increase US national security? How can US soft and hard power be combined into a smart-power Grand Strategy?

Walk or shuttle bus to residence of NU President & VADM Richard Schneider, US Coast Guard (Ret.) for reception and dinner (delegates only please). Student guides will escort delegates. Shuttle service to inns and hotel afterwards.